Vehicle Description
American LaFrance was one of the oldest and most storied manufacturers of fire apparatus in the United States. While officially incorporated in 1903 in Elmira, New York, the company’s roots can be traced back to 1873 when Truckson LaFrance and his partners founded LaFrance Manufacturing, and began producing hand-held fire-fighting equipment. The company soon moved on to horse-drawn apparatus, and in 1904, began fitting their equipment to truck chassis, a legacy that continued for over a century until their abrupt closure in 2014. Early American LaFrance fire engines were renowned for their toughness, exceptional quality and strong performance. Their huge, powerful engines found favor with fire fighters and they were built to a very high standard of quality. The LaFrance was so powerful for the day, that a small run of road-going speedsters were built between 1907 and 1914 to showcase the power plant. The speedsters were enormous, but also quite fast thanks to the 130 horsepower, 900 cubic inch (14 liter) T-head inline six. Even when the standard truck chassis was loaded up with firefighting equipment, an American LaFrance could deliver strong performance and exceptional reliability. American LaFrance understood these were huge investments for small towns and cities, so reliability and longevity were paramount. Beyond the magnificent build quality, many of their engines featured redundant magneto/distributor ignition systems, 12V electrical systems, and robust chain drive rear axles.
This 1926 Type 75 triple pumper is fitted with a T-Head Inline six displacing 14 liters(!) and producing 120 horsepower. It wears American LaFrance registration number 5489 and records indicate it was originally delivered to the Morehead City Fire Department of Morehead City, NC on 3/24/1926. The truck was later returned to the factory sometime after 1928 for updates including include higher radiator with taller, hood, new cowl with windshield, front wheel brakes and new gas tank. Pumping duties were handled by a 750 gpm rotary-style pump for efficient work, and the body is fitted with hose, ladders and all the necessary firefighting gear. Pumpers needed to be efficient, powerful and maneuverable as they were served as the cornerstone of any firefighting operation.
Long since retired from duty, this handsome American LaFrance has been nicely restored some time ago. It features loads of period equipment and presents in very attractive and usable condition. Whether you are an established collector of fire apparatus or an enthusiast looking for a great quality entry-level piece, this Type 75 is a wonderful choice as it is not overwhelmingly large or cumbersome. At approximately 20’ in length, it is hardly longer than a 60’s or 70’s Cadillac, making it friendly and approachable to the average collector and allowing it to fit in a moderately sized garage. Like many fire trucks from this period, the proportions are wonderful and almost sporty in appearance thanks to the long hood and purposeful stance. The paint work is in very good condition with nice straight panels and quality detailing and striping. Brightwork is in similarly fine condition, exhibiting good condition all around and no excessive pitting or corrosion. The 14 liter T-Head inline six is clean, tidy and detailed to a functional level, with allowances made for reliable running. The chassis, running gear and robust chain-drive rear axle are similarly tidy and clean and in excellent operational condition. This fantastic truck is one of the great work horses from a legendary American manufacturer. Attractive, tough, and powerful, this American LaFrance is ready for regular enjoyment, casual show or parade duty. Please note the truck is titled as a 1925.
